Members

Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation

The Program

This Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation program, considered one of the best in British Columbia, provides basic training in preparation for employment and apprenticeships in Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Truck and Transport Mechanic, Transport Trailer Technician and Diesel Engine Mechanic. Through technical and practical training on actual equipment used in industry, students learn safety, tools, computers, as well as the service and maintenance of on- and off-highway trucks and buses, and heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, graders and loaders. Job search, communication and resume writing skills are covered, and students also participate in on-the-job work experience.

This program is suited to individuals with all levels of mechanical experience who meet the listed admission requirements. Upon successful completion of the program students receive a certificate in Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation with level one theory credit and four hundred fifty hours work based training time. This allows the graduate to choose one of the following four trades as an apprentice: Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Truck Transport Mechanic, Transport Trailer Technician or Diesel Engine Mechanic.

Students have an opportunity during the program to obtain airbrake endorsement, forklift certification, and driver training up to Class 1 at a special student rate.

Work Placement Opportunities

Apprenticeship/Journeyperson Information

VIU offers apprenticeship training in the Heavy Mechanical Trades.

To achieve journeyperson status, graduates of the certificate program must find employment as an apprentice in one of the four trades and complete an apprenticeship to be eligible to write the Interprovincial Exam to become a certified Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Truck Transport Mechanic, Transport Trailer Technician or Diesel Engine Mechanic. Having the option to choose between the four careers provides flexibility when entering the job market.

Demand for apprentices in the four trades can vary with the economy; one or another could provide better job opportunities during different economic conditions. With the Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation certificates in hand, graduates have a broader field of opportunity. Employers look for students with a good attitude towards their work, who are reliable, and who have achieved good marks.

The Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Truck Transport Mechanic, Transport Trailer Technician and Diesel Engine Mechanic Apprenticeship programs consist of up to four years of on-the-job experience combined with in-school technical training in order to become eligible to write the Interprovincial (Red Seal) Examination for journeyperson certification.